Ted Jackson Garland, age 81, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. He was a lifelong resident of the Center Community. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ann Hardiman Garland; his parents, Joseph Earl and Bertie Garland; four brothers: Virgil, Junebug, Donnie, and David Garland; and three sisters: Opal Haywood, Dorothy Walters, and Sandra Pierce.
Paw Ted is survived by his two daughters: Sharon Smith (Steven) and Jackie Fleeman (Johnny), both of Lawrenceburg; and his son, Stephen Garland (Troy McGowan) of Columbia. He is also survived by two grandchildren: Cheyenne Rochelle Keeton of Lawrenceburg and Riley Smith (Hillary) of Mt. Juliet; one great-grandson, Opie Smith of Mt. Juliet; two brothers: Lanny Garland (Rena) and Jerry Garland (Donna), both of Lawrenceburg; seven sisters: Joy Staggs of Lawrenceburg, Sue Riddle of Summertown, Mable Patterson (Charles), Wilma Johnston (Henry), Brenda Bohn (Bob), and Judy Davis (Randy), all of Lawrenceburg, and Doris White (David) of Centerville. Two brothers in law, Jerry Pierce of Summertown and Billy Walters of Lawrenceburg. Two aunts, Iva Dell Self and Ruby Garland both of Lawrenceburg. One sister in law Patsy Frazier (Tony) of Summertown. Along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Vonda Roberts, April Lay, and all the caregivers, doctors, and staff who cared for him during his illness.
Born the 5th child of 17 children on Monday, October 29th, 1945. A proud veteran, skilled craftsman, and devoted family man, Paw Ted lived a life of hard work, and service to his country. He honorably served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, (1966-68) learning the values of courage and dedication that stayed with him throughout his life. Following his military service, he dedicated 42 years of hard work and loyalty to Murray Ohio Manufacturing in Lawrenceburg until his retirement.
Paw Ted was a man of simple but deep passions, and many talents. He was a father, grandfather, brother, husband and a son. A builder, creator, soldier and a farmer. A leader, a carpenter, a laborer, a witness and a friend.
Ted spent time working the fields with McCord Farms and could often be found outdoors tinkering with just about anything in his shed. As a member of the Crossroads of Dixie Tractor Club, he shared his love for vintage tractors, proudly building a personal collection of tractors, unique hammers, clocks and many other trinkets. The pride that he put into his garden, pumpkin patch and rows and rows of beautiful flowers each year was very rewarding to everyone he knew. When he wasn’t collecting or working outdoors, he was building furniture, cutting boards and picture frames by hand. Most likely he was fixing or working on a project for one of his youngins. Paw Ted also enjoyed the comfort of listening and singing along to bluegrass music, and relaxing in front of a classic western movie or series.
He was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church. He was a fighter when times were tough, a leader when guidance was needed. To his community, he was a faithful neighbor and a loyal friend; to his family, he was everything. If it could be planted, he could grow it. If it was broken he could fix it. Always full of life and happiness. Always had a song in his heart and a joke ready to tell. He was always cutting up with those he loved all the way up to the very end.
Arrangements are being handled by Neal Funeral Home, 231 N. Military Avenue, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM Monday, November 9, 2026, at Neal Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted at Neal Funeral Home at 2:00 PM Monday, November 9, 2026, with Jarrett Scott officiating. Interment will follow at Macedonia Cemetery in Lawrenceburg, TN with full military honors.
The family asks in lieu of flowers donations be made to Abigail’s plan
Proverbs 20:7 – The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.
